When in Morocco, one might visit the El Badi Palace, walk the grounds of the Koutoubia Mosque or enjoy a meal of dates and chebakia at... McDonald’s?

For some, dining at McDonald’s has become part of the fun of travelling abroad. With distinctive locations – a “ski-through” restaurant in Sweden, a decommissioned Douglas DC-3 aircraft in New Zealand – and vastly different menus, the fast-food chain has adapted to a host of cultures, drawing locals and tourists alike.

Across TikTok, YouTube and Reddit, travellers have marvelled at the options: poutine in Canada, jamon Iberico sandwiches in Spain, fried chicken in Malaysia, macarons in France and McSpaghetti in the Philippines, to name a few.

Though some seasoned travellers may look down on dining at McDonald’s in Paris or Bangkok, the brand’s fans say it is worth seeing how the chain adapts to local cultures. It has become an entry point into an unfamiliar cuisine or a way to mix the comforts of home with something new.

That is how Gary He, a photographer based in New York City, sees it. He recently released McAtlas: A Global Guide To The Golden Arches, a 420-page self-published book of photos documenting the global McDonald’s experience.

He, whose project was not authorised by McDonald’s, said it showed the vast difference between McDonald’s locations in the United States and those abroad.

“McDonald’s is known for its consistency, but as you go around the world, you realise that really isn’t the case,” he said. “It goes against everything you believe or know or assume about the brand when you’re in the US.”

The book features photos he took at McDonald’s restaurants in 50 countries, showcasing local menu offerings, distinctive architecture and stunni...